What is the Independent Living Program (ILP)?
ILP is a program designed to help youth in placement make the transition to a safe and productive adulthood at the time they emancipate.

Why was the ILP Program developed?
There are more than 125,000 California children in placement every day. Many of these children are teenagers. The foster care system provides for their care until they emancipate (turn 18 and graduate from high school). Many of these youth do not have families to help support them through the first difficult years of young adulthood. ILP was developed to help prepare youth to be able to care for and support themselves when they emancipate.

Who is eligible for ILP?
All youth age 15 ½ and older who are in placement (foster care, relative care, group home, RTC) under the jurisdiction of the Juvenile Court through Child Welfare Services or Juvenile Probation. Once a youth is enrolled in ILP, he/she continues to be eligible for the program even if he/she is returned to the home of a parent.

How do I enroll in ILP?
You need to be referred by either your social worker or your probation officer. Contact them for a referral.

How long will I be eligible for ILP Services?
After you emancipate, you will continue to be eligible for Aftercare Services until you are age 21. Aftercare can help you with transitional housing, the Job Training Program and some college expenses.

How is the ILP Program funded?
The program is federally funded through the California Department of Social Services.

Social Services Home Page or ILP Home Page

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